Bulgarian International Driving Permit Photo Requirements
Getting a Bulgarian international driving permit requires a specific passport-format photo. You can prepare your print-ready image using the tool above.
Official Size and Guidelines
The Ministry of Interior of Bulgaria, Traffic Police, handles the issue of your international driving permit[1]. When you apply, you must provide the correct documents and a matching photograph[1]. However, the authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for[1].
The service page asks for a passport-format photo but does not give its dimensions[1]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is a practical choice, not a size stated by the authority. Confirm the required size with the issuing office before printing.
Head Height and Framing
When framing your picture, you need to know how the proportions work. The head height is not set by the authority. Without a strict official rule for the exact millimeter measurement from your chin to the top of your head, you should aim for a balanced, centered composition.
Keep your shoulders even and look straight ahead into the camera lens. Position your camera at your exact eye level to avoid distortion. You can use the tool above to easily crop your image to the correct proportions.
Background and Lighting
The service page asks for a passport-format photograph but does not specify a background colour[1].
Good lighting helps your photo look professional and clear. Stand facing a large window during daylight hours to wash your face in soft, natural light. Avoid using overhead lights that cast harsh shadows under your nose and chin, and make sure there are no strong shadows on the wall behind you.
Glasses, Expression, and Head Coverings
Official rules can sometimes leave certain details open to interpretation. Rules for glasses are unspecified by the authority. If you wear prescription glasses daily, you may choose to keep them on, but ensure there is no flash glare on the lenses and that your eyes remain fully visible. Removing your glasses entirely is often the safest choice to prevent any reflection issues.
The service page does not specify rules for headwear or facial expression[1].
Submission and Printing
The service page lists one passport-format photograph and a valid Bulgarian national driving licence among the required items[1].
To make physical submission easy and inexpensive, you can arrange your cropped photo onto a standard 4×6-inch photo sheet. Take this digital template to a local photo kiosk and print it out just like an ordinary vacation picture. Then, cut out the individual photo using clean scissors or a paper cutter to match your required dimensions.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Avoiding common mistakes helps keep your application moving forward without unnecessary delays. Photos are frequently refused if they suffer from poor lighting, blurriness, or incorrect focus. Always check that your camera lens is clean and that your face is sharp before you save the final image file.
Another frequent reason for rejection is incorrect sizing or improper cutting. Measure your printed photo with a physical ruler to confirm it matches the expected dimensions. If anything looks off, you can quickly make adjustments using the tool above and print a fresh sheet at the kiosk.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the photo for a Bulgarian international driving permit?
The authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for[1], which is commonly 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). You should always confirm this with the issuing office.
Do I need a digital file or a printed photo?
The service page lists one passport-format photograph and a valid Bulgarian national driving licence as required items[1].
Who issues the international driving permit in Bulgaria?
It is issued by the Ministry of Interior of Bulgaria, Traffic Police[1].
Is head height specified by the rules?
No, head height is not set by the authority.
What are the background colour rules?
The rules state a passport-format photograph; no background colour value reported on the service page[1].